Who is Faralda?​She was a beautiful and sensual Dutch lady. A non conformist and quirky women living in the 40’s.​Unknown, but thanks to her ambitious and determined character she was able to realize the impossible.

Like what we did with the our old monumental crane. Everybody is able to realize a dream.Crane Hotel Faralda AmsterdamFrom scrap to Europe’s most unique and sensational hotel experience. A secret and hidden place in the sky of Amsterdam.

After a 4-year battle the unprecedented landmark has unexpectedly been rewarded. The risks and the technical challenges were immense.

Only open for a few months and already nominated for 3 prestigious European Hospitality Awards. The nomination cover the following three categories:1.Innovation in Service of the Year2.Best use of Technology3.Hotelier of the Year

​we are bloomingThree stimulating settings in Bergen and Bergen aan Zee represent a true and tasty adventure.At blooming hotel you inhale the scents of the dune forest, at blooming beach you hear the sounds of the sea, while at ‘landgoed' Het Hof you step right into a rich past. blooming has taken over a half century to develop into what it is today, and wishes for all guests to take away special memories. Feel, see, and taste blooming!

Once upon a time a small fishing village, over several last decades is one of the most luxurious resorts of the world. Sveti Stefan is tourist place, visited by almost all celebrities and famous people (Sophia Loren, Claudia Schiffer, Sylvester Stallone, etc).​Connected to the mainland by a narrow trail, surrounded by 2 magnificent sandy beaches and a beautiful park, this picturesque place will provide highest level of service for a most demanding tourists.

One of the villas on Sveti Stefan (Villa Montenegro) got “Five Stars Diamond” price in 2006 (by American Academy of Hotelier Science). But this is not all, Sveti Stefan got many prestigious awards (like “Golden List” 2008, Top International Hotel and many more).

In the immediate vicinity is also “Villa Milocer”, once a royal holiday villa, today luxury small hotel, situated in the beautiful and rich park, close to the “Queen’s beach” – one of the most beautiful small beaches in the world.​More

​As sumptuous and romantic as the city itself, Aman Venice – set in a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal – is home to museum-quality treasures including Tiepolo frescoes, gilded ceilings and centuries-old leather wall coverings.

More home than hotel, Aman Venice offers the rare privilege of space in the centre of the Floating City. High ceilings and spacious light-filled Salons are joined by two mature outdoor private gardens – a rarity in the city.

The hotel, set in the regal Palazzo Papadopoli on the Grand Canal, is in the heart of the city. Moments of beauty are everywhere, from St Mark’s Basilica to chance encounters with a door embellishment or fresco.

Guests can enjoy an exclusive after-hours visit to the Gothic Palazzo Ducale, once home to the Doge. Or visit the UNESCO World Heritage city’s key annual events including the Biennale, Film Festival and Carnival.

Very few places on earth are as beautiful and enchanting as Oman. In a land where history, nature and art meet in perfect measure - you can also experience architecture of immense proportions and incredibly intricate finishing.

Do you want to know what's it like to visit a Fort in Oman? Wondering what are the most impressive ones?Each fort in Oman has distinctive engineering and architectural features but it's the history and beauty that will you will remember forever.

​Almost 60 years ago, collector and horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont (1880–1969) opened his childhood home, Winterthur, to the public. Today, Winterthur (pronounced “winter-tour”) is the premier museum of American decorative arts, with an unparalleled collection of nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America between about 1640 and 1860. The collection is displayed in the magnificent 175-room house, much as it was when the du Pont family lived here, as well as in permanent and changing exhibition galleries.​Winterthur is set amidst a 1,000-acre preserve of rolling meadows and woodlands. Designed by du Pont, its 60-acre naturalistic garden is among America’s best, with magnificent specimen plantings and massed displays of color. Graduate programs and a preeminent research library make Winterthur an important center for the study of American art and culture.In his later years, du Pont wrote:

I sincerely hope that the Museum will be a continuing source of inspiration and education for all time, and that the gardens and grounds will of themselves be a country place museum where visitors may enjoy as I have, not only the flowers, trees and shrubs, but also the sunlit meadows, shady wood paths, and the peace and great calm of a country place which has been loved and taken care of for three generations.

Suspended on a precipice over the city 820 feet in the air, Sky Bar is one of the highest rooftop bars in the world and, along with Distil bar one flight up, reinvents Bangkok’s cocktail culture nightly.

​Widely regarded as Bangkok’s best rooftop bar, Sky Bar's innovative cocktails, striking atmosphere and spectacular views have made it a highlight of the Bangkok nightlife scene, and creations like the interesting Poptails where the mixologist brings together the cocktails and popsicle ice for the summer or the well-known Hangovertini, which was created for the cast of The Hangover Part II while they were filming at lebua, have endeared it to the Hollywood crowd as well.​The glittering multi-hued island Sky Bar is impeccably situated not just for some of the best views in Bangkok: it is also just steps from the award-winning Sirocco restaurant, positioning you perfectly for some extraordinary pre- and post-dinner cocktails and an unforgettable evening under the stars.

Sky Bar has received worldwide recognition and numerous awards, including:

2014: Harper's Bazaar, UK – Sky Bar is named one of "the world's best rooftop bars"

2013: The New York Times, US – Sky Bar is listed in "36 Hours in Bangkok" and named "the most stunning rooftop bar you’ll ever see"

2013: The New York Times, US – Sky Bar is named one of the "46 places to go in 2013"

​Terre Blanche is the ideal choice for travelers looking to get away from it all, living in harmony with nature, whilst enjoying luxurious facilities and services and being nearby all cultural sites of Provence Côte d’Azur.

Nestled in unspoilt lush nature and offering the best of authentic Provence, Terre Blanche resort is however easy to reach, a 35-minute drive from Cannes and 45 minutes from Nice International airport. The five-star hotel is designed like a Provençal village on a hillside, with 115 Suites and Villas each with a private terrace and a unique view over the surrounding nature and landscape. The hotel infinity pool overlooks the resort, offering a breathtaking panorama of the hills and their perched villages. Four restaurants in season, including a Michelin-star one, will offer to gourmets delicious culinary experiences.​The multi-award winning Spa was imagined for those who seek intimacy, peacefulness and well-being: the promise of an unforgettable stay thanks to unique infrastructures and services. On the ground floor, the majestic indoor pool opens on to a warm outdoor vitality pool and fragrant peaceful garden, while on the first floor 14 massages and treatments rooms, including 2 Duo Suites with private terrace, will welcome you for even deeper relaxation moments.​Delivering the perfect combination of performance and enjoyment of the game, Terre Blanche Golf offers two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by ex-professional golfer and renowned golf course architect Dave Thomas: Le Château and Le Riou. The two golf courses are completed with the state-of-the-art Albatros Golf performance center, dedicated to golfers of all levels.

Limburg is a very special province in the southernmost part of the Netherlands, with Valkenburg and Maastricht attracting a great many visitors, but Limburg also has a lot more to offer!​In the North, you can find extensive areas of great natural beauty, offering a wide range of possibilities for hikers and cyclists. The central section of the province contains the ‘Maasplassen’lake area with a great many recreational opportunities for boating, sailing etc. This is also where the Designer Outlet in Roermond is located, the largest outlet of its kind in Europe. And in the south, you’ll come across Maastricht and Valkenburg, both located in the hill country so unique for the Netherlands.

​In the aftermath of the war, Beauvais retains few testimonies evoking the glorious past of its Manufacture. Built on the plans of the architect André Hermant in 1964, near the Cathedral, the Gallery sits on the foothills of the Gallo-Roman ramparts of which you can see some vestiges.

​It presents contemporary exhibitions as well as furniture and textiles belonging to the Mobilier National collections. It pays tribute to the famous Royal Tapestry Manufactory formerly Beauvais. It houses and serves as a presentation to the National Furniture collections.

Its cultural programming is developed around the identity "Heritage and Creation". In partnership with the Mobilier National and the regional cultural structures (Picardie Regional Contemporary Art Fund, Photaumnales), the Gallery conducts an ambitious and dynamic policy of temporary exhibitions aimed at a national and international influence.​Free admission.

A masterpiece of 18th century architecture, the Great Stables were built by the architect Jean Aubert for Louis-Henri de Bourbon, the 7th prince of Condé. They are a veritable horses' palace.The building houses the Museum of the Horse, which presents the relationship between men and horses since the beginning of civilisation.

​The Great Stables offer equestrian shows throughout the year, devoted to the art of haute-école horse training which has been contributing to Chantilly's international renown for more than 30 years.

The unspoilt treasures of a 19th century princeThe Château de Chantilly is one of the finest jewels in the crown of France's cultural heritage. It is the work of a man with an extraordinary destiny: Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, son of the last King of France, Louis-Philippe. This prince, who is considered to be the greatest collector of his time, made Chantilly the showcase for his countless masterpieces and precious manuscripts.The Château survived down through the centuries and remains as it was when the Duke of Aumale bequeathed it to the Institut de France in 1886, making it the perfect place to take a journey back in time to the heart of a princely residence.In tribute to his illustrious predecessors, the Princes of Condé, the Duke of Aumale called the series of rooms housing his collection the "Condé Museum".

In recent years, the Tiskiwin Museum has focused on the presentation of the material culture of the Berber populations of Saharan origin. These populations are commonly called Berbers north of the Sahara and Tuaregs in the south, but they call themselves Imazighen (Amazigh sing) The permanent exhibition is conceived as a journey on the old caravan trails linking North Africa to the Sahel.

It has as theme and guiding thread the Art of the Set On the itinerary followed the traveler visitor meets the different populations at times of their social life - festivities, weekly markets - when each individual deals more specifically with the image that he wants to give of himself. It does so primarily with the help of body care and trimmings. These are part of a codified language which informs about the "tribal" belonging and the social status of the person who carries them, but leaves to the individual a margin of freedom which allows him to affirm his personality.

The study of forms and techniques used in ornaments often reveals aspects of the history of these populations that neither written sources nor oral traditions mention. In each of the ten stages are also presented objects or elements of architecture that are part of the interior decoration of the habitat. The form of this is determined by the way of life of the inhabitants (nomadic or sedentary) Materials for the realization of objects or the construction of habitat are often the products of agriculture and livestock (leather, wool, millet stems), next to materials taken in the natural environment.

Within sweeping archways, fresco and gold leaf detailing, mosaics and glass windows, you’ll find the St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. Our AAA Four Diamond Hotel provides a truly elegant experience in the heart of a bustling metropolitan area. Transport yourself to a time when travel was an art and the fine details were important.

Every guest room boasts timeless décor, a work area, a flat screen TV and spacious bathroom. Opt for a suite with a courtyard view, concierge lounge access and added amenities. Several of our suites offer exclusive access on the historical side of the building and are individually railroad themed.

Dining is a unique experience at our Union Station hotel with offerings ranging from upscale American cuisine to a quick sandwich or pastry. Savor delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Station Grille with lovely fountain views. Stop by the Grand Hall Market for your morning Starbucks coffee and grab a local treat or souvenir.​After a busy day in St. Louis, unwind with one of our many hotel amenities. Workout in the fitness center, swim some laps in the outdoor seasonal pool and revel in The Grand Hall Experience 3D Light Show. Plan your next St. Louis event in our 100,000 sq. ft. of flexible space for up to 2,000 people. Our unique venue, on-site event staff and catering options make your wedding day as perfect as possible.

Some journeys can be summed up in a photo, a tweet, a souvenir. But others are so filled with inner riches, they defy easy description. For our guests, this has always posed a challenge: How to best capture the world of luxury that is The Leela? For one visitor, it’s a lobby – and a welcome that makes her feel like royalty. For another, it’s discovering a hidden garden, guided only by the scent of jasmine. To some, it is small touches that few others notice – the warmth of a gesture, the extra care in the simplest dish. Finding the right words for this distinctly Indian brand of luxury is made all the more difficult because it is constantly being refined and enhanced by each person we invite to join our staff.

From the start, we have been on a continuous journey to delight each traveller who crosses our threshold. It is The Leela’s goal to provide the most demanding guests with memorable, magical stays that deliver the essence of India and discover a 5-Star experience found only in India, and only at The Leela. In a span of 30 years, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has grown to comprise a world-class collection of nine award-winning luxury hotels spread across key destinations in India with many more on the anvil.

When discovering a new country, one can hardly expect to get a full sense of the place without meeting its inhabitants. By opening their doors to you, and showing you the kind of hospitality they would show to friends who have travelled a long distance to see them, the Lebanese people of Beirut and of the different Lebanese regions share with you bits of their identity, their history, their traditions and their daily lives.

The core mission of our project is to offer you a profoundly human experience, far removed from any standardized “deal”. Our services can only be engaged directly through us, whichenables us to get to know you better and to provide you with personalized guidance and advice. What’s more, the majority of our accommodations are only available for reservation through the L’HOTE LIBANAIS network.​Our independence allows us to stay on top of our development, and protect our project from the perils of business models that overvalue short-term-gains while neglecting the aspects that we find essential. As an independent organization we are able to maintain your satisfaction, as well as the wellbeing of our hosts and all those who participate in our adventure, as our top priority.

At Hotel Føroyar we welcome everyone. Whether you are planning a short getaway, a longer stay or a family holiday at Hotel Føroyar. The modern atmosphere and comfortable rooms allow you and your family to enjoy a wonderful stay at our beautiful hotel.​The natural grass roof of this peaceful, design hotel matches the surrounding green countryside. All rooms overlook the Island Nólsoy and central Tórshavn, which is 2 km away.We offer our guests free acess to our fitness room, free WiFi troughout the Hotel and free parking.

The rugged local landscape in the area around Hotel Føroyar is popular amongst hikers. Our neighbours offer hourseback riding.​www.hotelforoyar.fo

Being located just 25 minutes away from Antalya International Airport, Mardan Hotel, the most luxury hotel of Mediterranean Region, was established and is managed with an understanding of redefining the elegance of the past and the modern luxury of present days.

Since its opening Mardan Hotel was awarded with the awards of “the most luxury hotel in Europe”, “the best SPA center in Europe” and “the largest swimming pool in Europe” by the World Tourism Awards.

The architectural structure of the hotel was inspired by İstanbul. The center section reoffering the magnificence of Dolmabahçe palace connects the rooms section reflecting the European architecture themes to the other main rooms section representing the eastern architecture. The main pool containing a reproduction of the maiden’s tower –Kızkulesi- embraces the canal hosting the royal boat and Da Vinci Bridge.

​Such ambience will give you an experience of a unique accommodation and take you to the fairy World. Our experienced and qualified personnel are selected and trained to exert themselves to the utmost to meet each and every demand of our guests.

We are a group of Bengalureans who take pride in helping residents as well as visitors experience heritage: human and natural, in and around this historic city.

From forts, colonial bungalows, centuries’ old gardens, places of worship and bazaars to diverse food and spiritualism, we help you explore the known and not-so-well-known facets of this part of world.

Hotel Whiskey is boutique hotel with 11 beautifully appointed rooms one of which is a luxurious 1000 square foot master suite. The hotel also features a fine dining restaurant specializing in steaks and fresh seafood brought in straight from the Gulf.

The full-service bar located inside the restaurant is a wonderful place to sit, relax and enjoy a refreshing cocktail. Specially selected complimentary cocktails are available upon check in. We are located in the quaint downtown district of Pass Christian which sits nestled near the sparkling waters of the Mississippi Sound.

​Guests may spend the day shopping and dining in the many shops and restaurants located in downtown Pass Christian, all of which are in easy walking distance of the hotel, or they may be entertained at the three casinos located nearby. We are in close proximity to the Pass Christian Harbor and beach. Charter fishing for redfish and speckled trout is at it's finest. Charter fishing boat referral is available upon request.

Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market

Camden Lock Market

Old Spitalfields Market

Greenwich Market

Covent Garden Market

Southbank Centre Market

Columbia Road Flowers

There’s plenty to do in a country whose history dates to back to 4000 years. With its transformation from the Dilmun civilization to the Portuguese reign and then to the Islamic era, Bahrain is home to many ancient ruins, museums, antique book collections and classical Arabic homes.

A three day itinerary has been custom made for weekend visitors. All these locations and recommendations can be mixed with other activities and outings, though each day’s locations have been chosen based on their proximately. Alternatively, many travel agents in the Kingdom arrange for regular guided bus tours that show visitors that top sites.​DAY 1Bahrain National MuseumYou will find exhibits on natural history and life before oil was discovered in reached Bahrain, which essentially transferred it into a modern country with an advanced infrastructure. One of the most fascinating permanent exhibits at the museum is the Hall of Graves, which includes actual graves excavated from their original sites in the village of Aali. Hundreds of years ago, the inhabitants of ancient civilizations in Bahrain used to bury their dead with their personal belongings, believing that they will be of use to them in the life after.

Lunch: Saffron RestaurantSaffron or Za’fran in Arabic, is a new refurbished restaurant situated in the heart of Muharraq city. Its authenticity lies in the traditional Bahraini dishes such as Kebab Rolls, Keema, Balaleet, Eggs and Tomatoes, and a special mixture of Fava Beans, Parsley and Lemon.

Muharraq Traditional HousesOne of Bahrain’s oldest and most important cities, Muharraq is another island that is connected to main-land Manama by three causeways. The city has many attractions, including antique houses that have been renovated to modern standards, yet preserving their original essence and charm. The houses include the historical Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture & Research, Abdulla Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage, Bin Faris House for Sut Music, Bin Matar House, the Pearl Merchant’s House (Siyadi House), Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House, and the Children’s Library (Iqra’a House). For more info about these houses and more.

Bab Al BahrainBy this point you would have satisfied all your cultural curiosity (at least for the day!). It’s time to bust out of the calmness of museums and cultural centres and dive into a place that is buzzing and bustling around the clock. Since you’re on your way back to Manama, make sure you stop at Bab Al Bahrain (Gateway to Bahrain), the site that is considered the old city’s gate back in 1945. Used as both a gate to the busiest market place and also a space for government offices, this structure was once right on the waterfront, which still exists but now almost a kilometre east of the gate.

Pass the gate and you’ll enter into Bahrain’s original market place-the Souk. You’ll see countless vendors and retailers, some of them very old businesses owned by well-known Bahraini business families (called “merchants” back in the day). The merchandise here is varied and could range from electronics, apparel, souvenirs, books to home ware. Feel free to bargain!

Dinner: La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary ArtsYou’ll probably be ready for an early dinner by the time you are done with Bab Al Bahrain and the Souq. For a meal in one of the most romantic places in Bahrain, there’s no other venue that compares to La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts. This space was an antique Bahraini house in an old city quarter that has been converted into a modern day chateau with an art centre and spa. There is a gigantic water fountain in the centre of the centre’s large yard.This is a truly marvellous location you will not forget. Just like the Muharraq houses, this spot is located in a rather unexpected neighbourhood. As you drive (or are being driven there), you’ll pass a Catholic church, one of the oldest high schools in Bahrain that was originally established as a missionary school, a mosque, and even cross the gates of one of Bahrain’s largest cemeteries.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DAY 2We’re almost done with cultural spots and heritage, but there are a few more must-sees before you start experiencing modern day Bahrain and doing things that a Bahraini would do any day.

Beit Al Qur’anBeit Al Qur’an means House of Qur’an in Arabic. Rare Islamic manuscripts and artwork have been restored and are on permanent display here. The collection is one of the largest and most important in the Islamic world. The collection also includes one of the oldest manuscripts from the Quran, including medieval Qurans that have been scripted from the beginning of Islam, as well letters exchanged by important figures of the time. You can truly appreciate the evolution of Arabic manuscript and calligraphy as well as the journey of the Quran from its beginnings till today.

Exhibition RoadExhibition road is at the rear of Beit al Quran. It’s a long strip of small shops, shawarma and fast food restaurants and 3-4 star hotels. Countless sports cars cruise along the boulevard and around the shops and nightclubs scattered along the street. Exhibition Road is probably the 3rd hottest spot to be during the weekend after Adliya and Juffair. Stop here during the day for a quick bite, and in the evening if you are interested in exploring Bahrain's night life.

World Trade CenterThe Bahrain World Trade Centre (BWTC) is a symbol of achievement and a reflection of momentum behind the region’s fast growing economy. Its innovative design combines the essential elements of lifestyle and business to create a powerful emblem of aspiration and accomplishment. The Bahrain World Trade Centre is more than its landmark commercial towers, offering amenities such as an exceptional shopping and dining environment, a five-star hotel and sophisticated office accommodation.The BWTC is the Kingdom’s first truly intelligent building and features an array of sophisticated SMART features. Reaching its point at over 240 meters in heights, the BWIC’s two iconic 50-storey towers offer spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Manama’s cityscape. There are many things to do at the BWTC. You can hop into the elevator and experience a panoramic view of Bahrain. You can shop in Bahrain’s most exclusive mall, Moda Mall, or eat or simply stop by for a coffee break.

Bahrain City Center, Al A'ali Shopping Complex & Seef MallThese three malls are about ten minutes from each other by foot and five minutes by car. The best shopping in Bahrain is found here. There is a combination of high-end couture, casual clothing, electronics, gadgets, bookstores and jewellery. There’s more in these malls than pure retail therapy. Arcades, games, a children’s playing area, food courts and restaurants can keep you occupied for hours if you want to spend hours in a cool air conditioned environment. Seef Mall has over fourteen movie theatres that show Hollywood, Bollywood and Arabic movies. Bahrain City Centre has a 20-screen cinema complex and houses the Wahoo Waterpark.

The Ritz-Carlton, BahrainThere’s plenty to do in one of Bahrain’s finest hotels and resorts, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. The lobby area has a very comfortable saloon style café that serves delicious sandwiches and cakes. We highly recommend the “WOW Burger”, a rather costly work that is prepared partly with fois gras. You’ll probably want to rest for some time to digest. Luckily the chairs and couches in this area are very comfortable.The pool area in the Ritz is vey popular, especially on weekends. There are two large pools and a private beach front open for members or guests. Visitors can also pay a fee to use the facilities. If you’re interested in water sports, peddle boats and water skis can be rented from the hotel.The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton is also a popular spot for those seeking peace, quiet and zen. A variety of treatments is available for men and women, mostly spanning over 50-60 minute sessions. Large jacuzzis and a Turkish Hammam (steam rooms with varying temperatures) are available in both the men’s and women’s spas.Trader Vic’s, the Tahitian restaurant chain is also a very popular trendy bar/restaurant well known for its sea food and cocktails. A live band plays from 7pm into the early hours of the morning. No reservations are typically required during the weekdays, but book in advance for dinner or arrive early on the weekends.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DAY 3Block 338, AdliyaStart off your day in Adliya, Bahrain’s bohemian quarter with scattered art galleries and cafes. Many of the homes in this neighbourhood once belonged to high-ranking officers in the English navy have been converted into cafés and art galleries and are truly charming. During the fall and spring season, all of these café have outdoor seating either overlooking the street or in the house’s original garden. We highly recommend Coco’s, Mirai, Meat Co. and Café Lilo.Al Riwaq Art Space is mainly an art gallery, but also has a coffee shop. The art shown here is almost exclusively modern and avante garde and hosts continuous touring exhibits, art pieces, paintings and installations. The two story gallery also includes a café and a gift shop with memorabilia of touring exhibits, its permanent collections, as well as art magazines, books and journals.

Lunch: Café LilouLocated around the corner from Al Riwaq Art Space, Café Lilou is a bakery and restaurant that offers deliciously fresh baked French desserts, pastries, savouries and light meals. Sit outdoors and watch the rich and famous as they walk in and out of chick cafes and restaurants. For lack of better words, Lilou is truly fabulous because of its red and maroon velvet draperies and its Moulin Rouge décor.Now that you’re done with Adliya, you’re pretty much done with Manama and Muharraq and its time to head south to see one last archaeological site before heading into the latest developments happening in Bahrain.

Bahrain FortThe Bahrain Fort is a dramatic 16th century site built by the Portuguese on the remains of previous settlements that could be traced to the Dilmun era, circa 2,800BC. Landscape and sea surround the fort, while its interior consists of a series of rooms on many levels. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is connected to a museum that includes remains and artefacts found in the fort from earlier excavations, as well as photo displays of different stages of excavation and renovation.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)There is a long highway between Bahrain Fort and the Bahrain International Circuit. The circuit, the first of its kind in the Middle East, is about 30 minutes drive from the Bahrain Fort. The landscape starts changing as you drive south on the highway. You’ll see many new homes built on very high rocky hills and a rather large Bahraini flag, almost 20 stories high that was erected as a symbol of Bahrain’s pride and Bahrainis’ patriotism and love to their country. Whether hosting the F1 Grand Prix or not, the circuit is bustling with many motor-related activities and functions. Circuit tours, exciting 4x4 experience and karting rides are regularly scheduled for drop-in guests. There is also a big gift shop that sells posters, apparel and souvenirs of both the circuit and international F1 teams.

Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water ParkA large water park with the Dilmun Civilization theme, The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is a great getaway from Manama, and is a perfect solution for a hot summer day. The family-friendly park includes a lazy river, sandy beach, wave pool and a multitude of slides set amid fake ruins inspired by ancient Dilmun. The rides are plentiful and huge and the water is cool. You can spend hours there hopping from pool to pool and ride to ride. There is also a cafeteria and showers.

Al Areen Wildlife Park & ReserveLess than a 10 minute drive from the Bahrain International Circuit, the Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve is a reserve with roaming birds and animals that are native to the Arabian Gulf region, such as pelicans, flamingos, swans, gazelles, oryx, wild sheep, ostriches and goats, all of which roaming freely in the reserve. Guided mini-van tours are arranged throughout the day for visitors interested in entering the reserve.

Al Areen Palace & SpaAl Areen Palace & Spa is a luxurious hotel and resort located in the middle of the desert and surrounded by palm trees. The open spaced resort is a perfect exclusive escape from the city. The quiet villas surrounded by gardens and pools are a perfect escape from bustling city life. A comprehensive menu of massages, beauty treatments and state-of-the-art hydrothermal installations will reinvigorate your soul and senses.An international buffet, a Khaleeji Fusion restaurant, and an Oriental restaurant are all open week long. The restaurants tend to accept walk-ins throughout the week, but you should book on weekends just to be on the safe side. The lounge is also becoming very popular to groups who want to avoid crowded places. The dim and candle lit lounge is perfect for a romantic getaway or a quiet evening.